New search trends released by Google reveal a significant increase in the interest and exploration of artificial intelligence (AI) among Kenyans. According to the data, searches related to AI in Kenya have more than doubled (+150%) compared to the same period last year, marking a record high both globally and within the country. Kenya now ranks as the fourth highest in Africa and 13th in the world in terms of AI search interest.
Growing Curiosity in AI
The data shows that Kenyans are increasingly seeking to understand and utilize AI, with searches for “what is AI” rising by 60% and searches for “how to use AI” by 90%. Trending AI-related searches in Kenya include terms like “AI generated images,” “AI logo maker,” “AI text chat generator,” and “ask AI questions.” These breakout searches have surged by over 5,000% in interest since last year, reflecting a strong desire to integrate AI into everyday creativity and professional development.
Focus on AI Skills and Careers
The research highlights a growing interest among Kenyans to build AI-related skills and qualifications. Searches for “AI jobs” have more than tripled (+230%), while searches for “AI course” have more than doubled (+120%). Top queries related to AI learning include “where to learn AI and machine learning in Kenya,” “learn prompt engineering,” and “what is needed to learn AI.” This trend demonstrates a clear demand for AI education and training as Kenyans look to position themselves within this rapidly advancing field.
AI in Business and Startups
Kenyans are also exploring the intersection of AI with business and entrepreneurship. Searches for “AI and business” have increased by 60%, while searches for “AI and startups” have grown by 70%. This surge reflects the growing recognition of AI’s potential to drive innovation and create new business opportunities in Kenya.
Google’s Commitment to AI Education in Africa
In line with its mission to leverage AI for societal benefit, Google continues to offer free AI training programs across Africa through its Hustle Academy. This initiative, which has empowered over 10,000 businesses since its launch in 2022, includes modules designed to help entrepreneurs incorporate AI into their businesses. Additionally, Google’s Google for Startups Accelerator Africa program supports AI-focused startups across the continent, with 10 AI-driven ventures selected for its 2024 cohort.
AI’s Impact on Healthcare and Cybersecurity
The report also highlights a growing interest in the applications of AI in critical sectors such as healthcare and cybersecurity. In Kenya, searches related to AI and cybersecurity have more than doubled (+110%), while those for AI in healthcare have also seen significant increases. Searches for “AI and medicine” and “AI and hospitals” have grown by 50% and 90%, respectively, indicating a keen interest in the future role of AI in these vital areas.
Google’s AI Journey and Innovations
Google has been at the forefront of AI innovation since 2012, beginning with training computers to recognize images on YouTube. Since then, the company has developed TensorFlow, its internal AI software library, and published its AI Principles in 2016, guiding responsible AI development. Google continues to advance AI technology through initiatives such as the Gemini project, which integrates AI across Google’s product portfolio, including Android and Pixel devices.
In Africa, Google’s AI Center in Ghana collaborates with InstaDeep and the UN to address locust outbreaks, while in Kenya, Google is partnering with Jacaranda Health to improve maternal care through AI-driven solutions.
AI’s Transformative Potential in Kenya
Commenting on the findings, Agnes Gathaiya, Country Director for Google East Africa, said: “AI has the potential to create opportunities—from the extraordinary to the everyday—for everyone: bringing new waves of innovation, social and economic progress. So it’s no surprise that the people of Kenya are already looking to make the most of this transformational technology—finding ways to learn more AI skills to boost their career, creativity, and society.”
These trends underscore the growing importance of AI in Kenya, as the country positions itself as a leader in embracing and leveraging this transformative technology for economic and social advancement.
